1 I went to my garden, dear friend, best lover!breathed the sweet fragrance.I ate the fruit and honey,I drank the nectar and wine.Celebrate with me, friends!Raise your glasses—“To life! To love!”
2 I was sound asleep, but in my dreams I was wide awake.Oh, listen! It’s the sound of my lover knocking, calling!“Let me in, dear companion, dearest friend,my dove, consummate lover!I’m soaked with the dampness of the night,drenched with dew, shivering and cold.”
3 “But I’m in my nightgown—do you expect me to get dressed?I’m bathed and in bed—do you want me to get dirty?”
4-7 But my lover wouldn’t take no for an answer,and the longer he knocked, the more excited I became.I got up to open the door to my lover,sweetly ready to receive him,Desiring and expectantas I turned the door handle.But when I opened the door he was gone.My loved one had tired of waiting and left.And I died inside—oh, I felt so bad!I ran out looking for himBut he was nowhere to be found.I called into the darkness—but no answer.The night watchmen found meas they patrolled the streets of the city.They slapped and beat and bruised me,ripping off my clothes,These watchmen,who were supposed to be guarding the city.
8 I beg you, sisters in Jerusalem—if you find my lover,Please tell him I want him,that I’m heartsick with love for him.
9 What’s so great about your lover, fair lady?What’s so special about him that you beg for our help?